End Stage Renal Disease
What is End-Stage Renal Disease
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End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) is the final stage of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in which the kidneys have lost almost all their function. At this stage, the kidneys can no longer filter blood and remove waste products from the body.
Causes of End-Stage Renal Disease
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ESRD can be caused by various underlying conditions, including:
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Diabetes
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High blood pressure
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Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney's filtering units)
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Polycystic kidney disease (a genetic disorder)
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Autoimmune diseases
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Prolonged use of certain medications
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Symptoms of End-Stage Renal Disease
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ESRD may cause the following symptoms:
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Fatigue
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Nausea and vomiting
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Loss of appetite
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Weight loss
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Muscle cramps
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Swelling in the legs and feet
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Shortness of breath
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Difficulty sleeping
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Itchy skin
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Confusion or difficulty concentrating
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Decreased urine output or no urine output
Treatment of End-Stage Renal Disease
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ESRD requires immediate medical attention and treatment. Treatment options include:
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Dialysis, a procedure that filters blood artificially
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Kidney transplant, in which a healthy kidney is transplanted to replace the damaged one
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Medications to manage symptoms such as anemia, bone disease, and high blood pressure
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Dietary changes to limit certain nutrients and reduce the workload on the kidneys
Conclusion
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End-Stage Renal Disease is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention and treatment. If you have any symptoms or risk factors for ESRD, it is important to consult with your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Making healthy lifestyle choices and managing underlying conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure can also help prevent ESRD or slow its progression.